"A global icon of strength, willpower and Sikh pride"
Fauja Singh, the legendary marathon runner known as the “Turbaned Tornado,” has died in a road accident at the age of 114.
It was reported that he was hit by a vehicle whilst crossing the road in Jalandhar, Punjab, and rushed to hospital.
However, he was declared dead.
The tragic news was posted by journalist @Gagan4344 on X, who wrote:
“Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathoner, has tragically passed away at the age of 114 in a road accident.
“A global icon of strength, willpower and Sikh pride, he inspired millions by running marathons past 100.”
Fauja Singh leaves behind a remarkable legacy of endurance and inspiration.
Born in 1911, Singh struggled to walk when he was young. His mobility improved at the age of 10 when he finally managed to walk more freely.
He took up running at the age of 89 to cope with personal grief and went on to become the oldest person to ever complete a full marathon, aged 100.
He ran marathons in London, Toronto and New York, and held several world records in multiple age categories.
Throughout his later life, Singh became a global symbol of perseverance, fitness, and Sikh identity.
Singh was a torchbearer for the 2004 Athens Olympics and 2012 London Olympics, and appeared in an advertisement for a major sports brand alongside the likes of David Beckham and Muhammad Ali.
He was a longtime advocate for animals and previously did a pro-vegetarian campaign with PETA India.
In a statement, PETA said: “People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India (PETA India) is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Fauja Singh, the beloved centenarian marathoner and long-time advocate for animals.
“Mr Singh was proudly meat-free and inspired countless people to live in good health and with kindness and compassion.
“For his powerful pro-veg campaign for PETA India, Mr Singh said, ‘Age may bring wisdom, but if you want stamina, endurance and a lifetime of good health, turn to nutritious vegetarian foods’.
“His message resonated with athletes, elders, and youth alike, and showed that compassion and strength go hand in hand.
“Fauja Singh’s life was a testament to resilience, discipline, and heart, for people and animals.
“His support for meat-free living helped shine a light on the suffering of animals in the meat industry and inspired many to choose a more humane way of life.
“Animals have lost a powerful champion in Fauja Singh. His compassion reached far beyond the finish line. PETA India will forever remember him as a friend, a superhero, and an inspiration.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his loved ones.
“Mr Singh, we’ll miss you.”
His story, rooted in resilience and transformation, continues to motivate athletes, elders and communities worldwide.
Punjab’s governor, Gulab Chand Kataria, paid tribute, writing on X:
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner and symbol of resilience.
“At 114, he joined me in the ‘Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab’ march with unmatched spirit.
“His legacy will continue to inspire a drug-free Punjab. Om Shanti Om.”
Author Khushwant Singh, who wrote Fauja Singh’s biography Turbaned Tornado, also expressed his grief in a moving Facebook post:
“My Turbaned Tornado is no more.”
Fauja Singh’s life and achievements stood as proof that age is no barrier to greatness.
His discipline, humility and strength made him not only a sporting icon but a role model for mental and physical well-being.
His legacy, many say, will outlast any medal or marathon.
Watch Our Exclusive 2014 Interview with Fauja Singh
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